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HJR 160

Proposes a new constitutional amendment that limits the powers of corporations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeremy Dean

A constitutional amendment proposed by HJR 160 would limit corporate powers in Missouri, potentially restricting corporate political activity and influence, pending voter approval.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HJR 160

Overview

HJR 160 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Missouri that intends to limit the powers of corporations. As a joint resolution (HJR), it seeks to place changes into the Missouri Constitution, subject to voter approval. The bill has a co-sponsor listed (Jeremy Dean) and is progressing through the House with action history indicating committee referral and readings.

Purpose and Intent

  • The primary aim is to constrain the authority and influence of corporate entities within the state.
  • By proposing a constitutional amendment, the measure seeks to establish higher statutory limits than typical statutes, potentially affecting corporate governance, corporate political activity, and the permissible scope of corporate action in relation to public policy, consumers, workers, and the environment.
  • As a constitutional amendment, it would require voter ratification to take effect.

Key Provisions (as a constitutional amendment proposal)

  • The bill would redefine or restrict the powers that corporations may exercise within Missouri, potentially addressing areas such as:
    • Corporate political activity and contributions
    • Corporate rights in legal or economic contexts
    • Limits on corporate influence over public policy, regulatory processes, or government decision-making
  • The precise text of the amendment is not provided in the summary, but the title indicates a broad intent to curb corporate powers via constitutional change.
  • Typical components of such amendments include defining corporate personhood limitations, specifying that corporations do not have certain constitutional rights beyond what is granted to individuals, or establishing standards for corporate state actions that may conflict with public interests.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Corporations and limited liability companies operating in or seeking to operate in Missouri.
  • Corporate executives, boards, and shareholders who make decisions on political activity, lobbying, or strategic actions that could be constrained under the amendment.
  • Public entities, regulatory agencies, and government processes that interact with corporate actors, including procurement, permitting, and policy development.
  • Consumers, workers, and communities potentially affected by corporate practices, depending on the scope of the powers restricted.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Action History:
    • 2026-01-07: Read First Time (H)
    • 2026-01-08: Read Second Time (H)
    • 2026-05-15: Referred to Emerging Issues(H) committee
  • As a joint resolution, if advanced, it would typically require:
    • Passage by a majority of both chambers of the Missouri General Assembly (House and Senate) in similarly structured forms.
    • ratification by a majority of voters in a statewide election to become part of the Missouri Constitution.
  • No specific effective date is listed; constitutional amendments generally become effective upon approval by the voters unless otherwise stated in the resolution.

Important Considerations for Readers

  • The bill’s exact text and scope of “limits on the powers of corporations” are not provided here. Readers should consult the bill’s full language to understand:
    • Which corporate rights are affected (e.g., political contributions, legal standing, or other corporate prerogatives).
    • Any exemptions (e.g., small businesses, nonprofit entities, or government-owned corporations).
    • The mechanism by which limits would be enforced (statutory standards, judicial interpretation, or regulatory actions).
  • As a constitutional measure, the proposal carries long-term implications and would require broad public support to be adopted.

If you’d like, I can look up the bill’s full text or committee material to provide more granular details on the specific provisions and any fiscal or regulatory impact statements.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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